Dogs get bored and need some personal space; just like you. If you have a side yard, you can designate a specific area for your dog to run around and enjoy. In addition to keeping your dog safe on your property, a dog run also gives him the exercise and mental stimulation he needs.
As a result, we’ve listed a variety of side yard dog run ideas on the side of the house that serve their purpose while looking great.
What Is a Dog Run?
A dog run can serve as your pet’s playpen, exercise space, extra sleeping quarters, or hangout spot. These sections provide your dog with a private outdoor area separated from the rest of the house by a swinging pet-proof door.
The flooring of some dog runs is artificial grass, whereas the flooring of others is wood chips etc. Some use artificial turf, while others prefer natural grass or garden stones. A designated pet area is a practical side yard dog run idea if you spend most of the day at work and can’t leave your pet alone in the house.
Benefits of Having a Dog Run
A dog run is useful even if you have a gated yard where your dog or other pets may run, play and explore. This is especially important if you run a home crèche, host frequent outside events, or have a dog that likes to burrow under fences or find ways to escape. Some advantages of installing a dog run in your side yard include:
- It makes an area outside where dogs can feel secure while enjoying the fresh air.
- Allows dogs to run without human interference.
- Keeps dogs out of the garden, the pool, and other forbidden areas on the property.
- Avoids the browning of natural grass caused by dog waste.
Top 8 Side Yard Dog Run Ideas on Side Of House
1. Minimal Dog Run with Grass
This side yard dog run idea is ideal for little homes with a long and narrow side yard. The grass-floored dog run might also double as a training ground for your pets; you can use natural or synthetic grass, according to your preference.
Many dog owners like and prefer the lower cost of natural grass to artificial turf. However, genuine grass necessitates regular upkeep, such as regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing of the grass. You can add a folding outdoor dining set or some lounge chairs to enhance the functionality of this design further and spend more time with your furry friend.
2. Sensory Pleasing Dog Runs
This side yard idea for dogs is made with various materials and keeps your pet entertained and stimulated. You can use a mixture of different materials, such as stones, waterfalls, and soft grass, to create multiple sensations.
The market is flooded with dog toys, but they don’t always work for every dog. Providing your pet with some sensory stimulation may be all they need to feel better.
3. Install Safe Flooring
The flooring you choose can make or break your dog’s happy and healthy living space. Grass or artificial turfs are great side yard dog run ideas on the side of the house because it’s soft and natural. Pea gravel is another choice, as it provides excellent drainage and keeps pets’ paws from becoming muddy.
However, avoiding concrete and other hard surfaces is better for protecting your dog’s joints. The dog run landscaping will also help you create a great outdoor for backyard BBQ setup or backyard camping.
4. Create a green dog-friendly landscape
Build a dog run in the corner of your yard using dog-friendly landscaping. Lavender, rosemary, and chamomile are all dog-safe plants that can bring an extra dimension of sensory pleasure to your pet’s environment. Toxic plants, including lilies, azaleas, and sago palms, are side yard ideas for dogs that should be avoided. If you want to protect your plants from your dog’s digging and trampling, use raised beds or pots.
5. Design an Obstacle Course
Use things like tires, tunnels, weave poles, and platforms to make a miniature obstacle course in the dog run. This side yard dog run idea is optimal for promoting physical exercise, cerebral challenge, and obedience instruction.
Also, include a few water-resistant toys in the run to keep your dog’s mind active and engaged.
6. Add a Seating Area for Human Interaction
Create a relaxing lounging area inside or close to the dog run. You can set up an outdoor folding dining table or foldable lounge chairs to kick back and enjoy quality time together while your pet is playing.
7. Use Chain Link Fencing
Most portable dog runs feature a chain link fence for containment. This side yard dog run idea is cheap, long-lasting, and simple to set up and take down. You can easily check up on your dog through the chain fence and monitor its activities. Additionally, you can brighten up your side yard by painting the chain link to match your outdoor theme.
8. Get a Dog House
Your dog will appreciate the shelter from the elements provided by a dog home. Since you can’t predict the weather when you’re away from home, it’s best to install a cover for your dog run, even if it already has patios and trees. This cozy backyard idea for your dog will add more value to your dog’s run.
Things to Consider About Before Building a Dog Run
Design Permit: Depending on the size and height of your dog run, a building permit may be required before you can start construction. Inquire with the appropriate authorities to discover if you need permission to build what you’ve designed.
- Fencing: Larger, more powerful dogs necessitate more deliberate fence strategies.
- Height: If your dog likes to jump or climb, you’ll need to construct a taller dog run with a roof over it.
- Covered vs. Uncovered: If you live in a region with predators like mountain lions or coyotes, you may want to construct a roof over your dog run to keep your dog safe.
- Built-in vs. Portable: Lastly, you must pick whether you want a built-in enclosure or a portable dog run.
Concluding Thoughts
Most individuals give little thought to their side yard, despite its practicality. Installing a dog run is one of the greatest approaches to using your side yard without diminishing its aesthetic value. Get inspired to build a dog run with the help of our attractive side yard dog run ideas on the side of the house above.
